Contributed REFLECTION – Heather Hoover recently completed her first year as principal at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. Hoover said the year provided valuable opportunities for growth while allowing her to work with a dedicated staff committed to helping students succeed in their chosen career pathways and academic pursuits.

BLOOMINGDALE — After completing her first year as principal at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School, Heather Hoover said the experience has been one of growth, learning and opportunity.

“I think I would describe my first year as a principal as encouraging, as I had the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally,” Hoover said.

She said the year provided an opportunity to learn the day-to-day operations of the JVS and the responsibilities that come with serving students, staff and their families.

The role marked a new chapter after 17 years with Steubenville City Schools, where Hoover served in a variety of positions, including teacher, Success for All facilitator, Project Lead the Way Lead Launch educator, creative competitions coordinator for Destination Imagination and Odyssey of the Mind, and a 4-H adviser.

While she continues to serve as adviser for the Steubenville Seedlings 4-H Club, Hoover said her exposure to the many career-technical education programs offered at the JVS has helped her better support students as they explore future career opportunities.

The JVS currently offers 18 career pathways, including animal science management, auto collision, auto service, carpentry, computer networking, cosmetology, criminal justice, culinary arts, early childhood education, electrical trades, health technologies, heavy equipment operation, multimedia and design, power mechanics, Transition to Work and welding. HVACR and Fire/EMT programs are scheduled to begin this fall.

Hoover also highlighted the opportunity to work alongside a dedicated staff focused on student success.

“I’ve also enjoyed seeing our students succeed in both their career pathway as well as in their academics, and bringing new traditions to the JVS that highlight all the great things that the JVS has to offer as well as celebrating our students and their achievements,” she said. “Although I have had leadership roles before as a facilitator and oversaw programming and staff, being a principal created new responsibilities that required me to navigate and adjust to this new role. I have finished my year with a greater understanding of leadership and collaboration and am grateful to those who have supported me.

“As I reflect on this year, I am excited for the coming year, and welcoming our incoming juniors, and celebrating with our seniors as they finish their final year with us. I look forward to working collectively with my staff to ensure that we are the best career-tech educational choice for Jefferson County students.”

Heather Hoover recently completed her first year as principal at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School. Hoover said the year provided valuable opportunities for growth while allowing her to work with a dedicated staff committed to helping students succeed in their chosen career pathways and academic pursuits.